NYC Atheists Hate Heaven |:| Heaven Likes the First Amendment

NYC Atheists are challenging a new sign that went up in Red Hook, Brooklyn commemorating the death of seven first responder fireman who died on 911. This is the story in a nutshell:

[Ken Bronstein of NYC Atheists] calls the sign a violation of the separation of church and state, arguing that the word “heaven” is a clear reference to Christianity. [CNN]

But…

“They are heroes and should be rewarded in a place like heaven,” said [Community Board 6] member Tom Miskel. [Brooklyn Paper]

Don’t worry…

“A challenge would be unsuccessful,” said First Amendment lawyer Victor Kovner, who has represented companies such as HBO and Clear Channel in First Amendment cases. “In my mind, it’s far-fetched.” [Brooklyn Paper]

I say: Heaven is a pretty big signifier to assume it’s a reference to Christianity.

PS There is another street in Red Hook that is named after the Catholic Church on Ricards street, Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The street’s name is Vistation Place. It’s only one block long and the church’s grammarl school was on that street.